The following text is taken directly from South Hams District Council’s website
Losing one of our most abundant native tree species will have a massive effect on our landscape, hedges and the wildlife they support. Dying trees adjacent to highways and other public places also pose safety risks to people.
Over 90% of ash trees in Devon are likely to be affected by the disease.
448,000 ash trees are within falling distance of a highway in Devon.
99% of these trees are the responsibility of private landowners.
My Tree? My Responsibility!
Landowners have a duty to manage trees on their land, and take appropriate action to minimise risks to public safety from diseased trees. Find out more about ash dieback, and get advice and support from Devon Ash Dieback Resilience Forum.
If tree owners require assistance in finding a suitably qualified and insured arborist, information is available at The Aboricultural Association. Please note our Tree Officer is currently unable to undertake routine inspection visits to privately owned trees unless part of the processes involved in an existing, validated application for trees subject to a TPO orwithin a Conservation Area.
Trees Next to Roads and Footpaths
If you have concerns that Ash trees growing alongside highways, byways, bridleways or footpath may be subject to infection by Ash Dieback, it is important that these trees are reported to Devon County Council highways. You can do this via their website here.
Replant and Replace Trees
Please encourage new trees of other native species to grow to help reduce the effects of Ash Dieback on Devon’s landscape. Follow the 3:2:1 rule – at least 3 new trees for every large tree lost, 2 for every medium one and 1 for every small one.
Devon Ash Dieback Resilience Forum
Organisations, communities and individuals across Devon are joining forces to address ash dieback. The Devon Ash Dieback Resilience Forum website provides key information and advice relating to ash dieback in Devon.
We urge everyone to take action now to combat the safety and environmental impacts of this unstoppable disease.